Binky La Faye

A BEAUTIFUL MIND, AN INTIMATE CHAT WITH ROBIN BROWN OF MAGNOLIA PEARL

2012-02-13T20:52:00.000-06:00

A little over eight years ago Ron and I were struggling to make ends meet. I had acquired a lot of vintage velvet fabrics and trim and seen Robin Brown's famous purses, sooo.....I "borrowed" from her ideas (only slightly and not even like hers really). But the six or eight purses I made helped us get through a difficult Fall of 2003. We still had a few that Ron had not sold to certain attorney's wives in Austin, and then we found ourselves set-up in Fredericksburg for Trade Days.
We put the remaining few purses on a seperate table with some other (more original) creations of mine and tried to sell what we could.
And so it was on a cold, windy, late fall day in Fredericksburg that Ron and I met Robin and John - Magnolia Pearl. I was MORTIFIED!!!! Imagine as I saw those two strolling around the corner, headed straight to our tent. I looked at Ron and said, " Oh my God that's Robin Brown from Magnolia Pearl"!!!
Ron said, "Magnolia who"? "I've never heard of it".
I almost made Ron pull the table, but they were already upon us and I was just going to have to see it through. They came up and looked around, talked with us and made their way to the table of purses. Robin was wonderful!!!! She actually complimented me on my "rendition" of some of her work and explained that she had been copied so much it no longer concerned her (she was being gracious, but that is Robin).
Since then we have been friends, Ron and I have been blessed by their talent, generosity and the occasional odd job ( book and magazine photo shoots, setting up at Marburger, .....A FASHION SHOW).
So I wanted to give all of you a small look at the beautiful personality behind the wonder that is MAGNOLIA PEARL.   As the incredible event approaches, that being the Magnolia Pearl Fashion Imaginarium in conjunction with the Grand Opening of Carol Hicks Bolton's Labratoire de Design; all of which will be featured in Jo Pacham's fabulous magazine, Where Women Create, I invite you to enjoy yet another one-of-a-kind interview with an incredibly creative mind.

BLF: There has been much said about the things that inspire one to create. It seems that you draw your inspiration from your life experience. What have been some of the most profound influences on you as an artist and a person?

MP: Growing up in Hollywood and Northern California in the 60's and 70's definitely altered my perspective about life and being raised mostly by my father who was passionate about art, music, nature, poetry and God was my biggest influence. His mother, my grandmother, Brown, from Poland made everything by hand. She grew up working in sewing factories as a child in New York and was a master seamstress. Between her and my father, I always had a needle and thread or a paint brush in my hand. My mother, Anna, was a bigger influence than I ever realized until lately. Sometimes having a hurtful past causes us the reject the blessings in that past and until we are healed by the awareness of the enormous gift life is and the pain as a teacher of humility. My mother was a creative genius and to her I am so grateful. Her spirit will be ever present at the fashion show.

BLF: Your parents, Anna and Preston, both artists in their
own rite, who sadly left us far before their time were obviously a huge influence on you.How does their memory affect and encourage you still today?

MP:I'm just starting to realize how powerful genetics are…. My parents were the most creatively driven people I have known --Everything they did in their lives was art, almost to a fault. I find that same artistic madness comes over me to the point I have to remind myself to breathe and sleep --neither of which I am good at. Even if I lived to be 300, I would never be able to complete all the creations in my head!

                                                                                                                                                              BLF: You have a huge cult following. There are thousands who would love to see you open a brick and mortar store. Humor us with a word picture of what that would look like.

MP: The Whistle Stop Cafe meets Nanny McFee stocked with Queen Victoria's monogramed underwear on a farm in the south of France with acres of flowers, fruit trees, and organic vegetables; and Idgie and Sipsey would be my sales girls of course. Maybe I'll have this store in Fredericksburg someday.

BLF: If you had to enter a contest with three of your favorite designers and you all had to use polyester animal print fabric, how would you incorporate that into your design?

MP: Oh that's easy. I would build an over-sized, GIGANTIC, patchwork crazy-quilt coat all hand stitched. And Carol, if you're reading this, you'd get the first one!.

BLF: In the years that i have known you, your clothing has gone from brightly colored velvets and brocades to a more earthy sort of linen and lace look. Will you give us a suggestion as to what lies ahead... behind the metaphorical Magnolia Pearl Curtain?

MP: That's a secret. But I can tell you I am very excited, more than ever, about what's to come. Think plantation, prairie, peasant with a hint of Victorian orphans!

BLF: Imitation is considered to be the most sincere form of flattery. Many have attempted to imitate your style, but you seem to be always one step ahead of not only the imitators, but perhaps the fashion design world in general. How do you continue to come up with new and unique ideas every season, year after year?

MP: We all have a purpose and I feel like mine is to design and create, but I haven't quite figured out why yet…. How does my work fit into the master plan??? Until God shows me what I'm to do next, I'll be making clothes in the beautiful Hills of Texas. "All" of us have a creative genius inside. For me, to be alive is to create. It's really all I've known since I was a child.

BLF: You have expressed your admiration of Carol Hicks Bolton many times. How has it been collaborating with her on the Magnolia Pearl Fashion Imaginarium and the Grand Opening of Carol Hicks Bolton's Labratoire de Design?

MP: It's a gift. Carol is so gracious and generous that it can only be a gift from the heavens. Thanks, God.

BLF: Magnolia Pearl is not simply a brand name; it represents both a philosophy and a lifestyle. Those of us who have been exposed to the Magnolia Pearl lifestyle know that everything from the sugar-rock and sea shell encrusted bird baths to the faux bois arbor to the lushly embellished roll royce and airstream, even your.... well all the "things" in your life you make unique, magical, and wonderful. What propels you to surround yourself with such art and beauty and enchantment?

MP: My parents were extremely dysfunctional but highly creative, so our home was like creativity boot camp. My father, Preston, was spiritual above anything else and he taught me that God was the "master" artist and to create beauty was the ultimate reflection to show Him we are paying attention. So, beauty to me. . . it's a God thing.

BLF: Your style is reminiscent of of by-gone eras.... what are the feelings and emotions that you weave into your creations and that you hope to somehow magically transfer to the wearer?

MP: I hope Magnolia Pearl Beautiful Wear evokes passion in women reminiscent of a time when quality, beauty, and passion were valued above all else. A time when beauty was done for beauty-sake. A flower blooms whether we see it or not. Maybe we should take our queue from Mother Earth and bloom "just" because we can.

BLF: If given the opportunity to give a message to every single inhabitant of this beautiful planet Earth, what would your message be?

MP: We are here to love and be loved.

It is no surprise that Robin has such a huge and faithful following. Few people I have known are able to create such incredible beauty that also instills in the owner, at least some, of the rich history, creative passion and deep spirit that is our very special friend Robin Brown.
SEE YOU AT THE SHOW!!!!

THE DOORS ARE OPEN

2012-01-22T13:10:00.000-06:00

The whole extended family was gathered to pull the last remnants from the shell of what had been, for more than twenty years, the golden and glorious HOMESTEAD. Almost before the door was closed for the last time on that grand old building, the doors at Carol Hicks Bolton Antiquities, Laboratoire de Design were open, as anyone who knows Tim Bolton understands that the welcome mat is always out and the door is always open.And as for Carol, we all know that her creations do not know the boundaries of such things as hours of operations and official openings and closings. True to it's name, the Laboratoire de Design, is an experiment in fluid creativity,complete if only for a moment, until called upon to become something completely different: an experiment in ever changing creativity So as the light dimmed on a former incredible endeavor a twinkle began to ignite; imagination and creativity joined together........

Somehow retaining the reflection of what once was, yet allowing it to find it's own life, it's own existance, it's own beauty as a new creation unto it's self!!! And all of that takes place before the magical thought that becomes a word that leads to creation...

unfolding like the spring blossom - at no difinable point perfect in it's beauty, but it's perfection is shown in every stage of it's progression.

So, before the secret trail from Main Street to South Lincoln Street becomes a well trodden pathway, take the opportunity to slip in through the side door and behold the wonders that are taking place in preparation for the most wonderous Grand Opening imaginable.

The grand opening with the Fashion Imaginarium by Magnolia Pearl. It is sure to be an evening that will not soon be forgotten. Mark your calendar for Saturday February the 18th at 6pm.

And be sure to follow the blog of the generous and beautiful Anne Lorys (Fionaandtwig.blogspot.com) as she is going to be posting new photos every week of the progress at Carol Hicks Bolton.

MAGNOLIA PEARL'S FASHION IMAGINARIUM

2012-01-10T19:59:00.001-06:00

I've been keeping a secret.... a big, juicy, luscious secret. This secret has been keeping Ron and I very busy of late. But we are now ready to reveal this wonderful suprise!!!
Many of you know and love my dear friend and kindrid spirit Robin Brown and her husband John of Magnolia Pearl. Their completely unique fashion designs reflect their one of a kind philosophy on life, always changing yet somehow always sweetly familiar. BUT WHAT IF.....I were to tell you that Ron and I are teaming up with Magnolia Pearl AND Carol Hicks Bolton to produce.....well I'll just let the invitation speak for itself....

We fully expect that between such creative minds as Robin and John and Tim and Carol we are about to present you with a show the likes of which have never been seen. The amazing Jo Packham of Where Women Create Magazine will be there to immortalize the event. So save the date, dust off your tails, your coat tails that is, and prepare to be enchanted!!!!

CAROL HICKS BOLTON and her LABORATOIRE de DESIGN

2011-12-30T10:11:00.001-06:00

Homestead in the old days

Throughout my life there have been a handful of people outside my family who have had a profound influence on me, and Carol Hicks Bolton is one. A great part of Carol's magic seems to be her ability to recognize potential ( in people and in objects) that others can't see. She recognized and nurtured that unseen raw talent in me.

My relationship with Carol has seen everything from the two of us sleeping on a pile of packing blankets in the back of a U-Haul truck at 3am on the way to buy antiques in Brimfield to her being the first person at the E.R. after my teenage daughter was seriously injured in an automobile accident, to giving into folly at numerous Homestead parties dressed in everything from pajamas to 18th century French gowns.

Through the years Carol has always shown her great depth of compassion, creativity and love which have always outshone even her most glorious material works. And I wonder if it is because of those attributes that she is so easily able to create those glorious material things.

One of Carol's many gifts, as I think you will see in this interview, is to be an artful storyteller whether she is using words or objects. So it is with great pleasure that I present a preview (the inside jacket cover?) of Carol's newest and wonderful story which she is preparing to tell the world.

So cozy up - brew a cup of hot tea and enjoy the one time, one-of-a-kind glimpse into the genius that is Carol Hicks Bolton.

BLF: In the more than twenty years that I have known you and Tim, you have both proven yourselves to be innovators and trendsetters, always on the cutting edge of design, morphing and sometimes changing entirely the business concept while aspects of the Carol Hicks Bolton signature style have remained relatively unchanged. Can you give us a glimpse behind the scenes of your latest endeavor?

CHB: Picture a space with million foot ceilings, concrete floors, tobacco stained, chickenfeed smelling concrete walls, and beautiful light--right next door to your favorite place to buy sod seed and fodder..... and there you are--a peek into our next adventure on Lincoln Street.

We loved being in the midst of the craziness of Main Street for 20+ years. (Wow, I don't even know how long we were there.) With the birth of our children, we began trying to simplify our lives so that we could enjoy the family that we had prayed for for 15 years. Mac is 16 now, and Augusta 12!!! Moving to Lincoln Street gives Tim a lot more flexibility of schedule. It will be a much more laid-back venue. The folks that head our direction will understand more about what we are doing and will appreciate the art of our aesthetic. Our clients will be our friends again. There will be time for relationship and fellowship--something we have missed with the busy footfall of Main Street.

BLF: So will we see the same Carol Hicks Bolton style that has been so successful in the past or are you taking things in a whole new direction?

CHB: It feels like a whole new direction for me--I have been at home with my children and out of the design world for awhile but I am still a storyteller. I continue to love interiors and objects that tell a tale--either make-believe or true. The CHB style is alive and well, perhaps a bit more spare but with a healthy dose of detail and wonder. We have bought a mountain--ok, a hill- of ancient cushy chairs from France that we are redressing into little jewel box pieces for boudoir and parlor-envision the diminutive antiquities clothed in a patchwork of sari's, paint and velvet, industrial bits of--wait, I can't tell you everything. there will be no surprise.

BLF: How has your style evolved over the years and what has driven that evolution?

CHB:I would say that my style has evolved from moreismorealiceinwonderlandmeetsbohemianbotanist to a littlelessmoreismorealiceinwonderlandmeetsbohemianbotanist. I have become much more simple in my own personal style. There's no time to dabble in things that aren't important.

BLF: What color could you not live without?

CHB: I've never met a sea-green, blue-green, mineral, greenish-blue, or aquamarine that I didn't like.

BLF:Words like Victorian, Old World and Nostalgic have be used to describe your look. How would you describe it?

CHB: hmmmmm..... I think that my look is a mash-up of Bollywood/Peasant Clothes/ Oliver Twist/laundered lace set out to dry/ National Geographic/French Modern

BLF: Tell me what your vision is for this newest pursuit?

CHB:Love God, Follow the Savior, Serve Others, Be Content, Inspire, Encourage,Have Fun.

BLF:What shapes do you find yourself drawn to?

CHB: Anything that was once chubby, but has now lost it's shape because of love---you know, Velveteen Rabbit-ish chairs and such.............

BLF: A key element to the Carol Hicks Bolton look seems to be taking a common object and using it in an unexpected way.
Can you elaborate on that?

CHB: We are calling this shop Carol Hicks Bolton: Antiquities & Laboratoire de Design. Tim has always been a "thing-finder"--you know those fascinating objects from the past ages that cause you to stop, gasp, and wonder. This time, instead of just displaying them as they are, they will be made into things-- old things made into new things.......we want the look to be always inventive--the space acting as more of a laboratory--something always in the works--a place for a changing assemblage of objects and antiquities. Tim is designing AMAZING beds out of these collected parts-so delicious. I'm putting together linens--pieces of my authentic style mixed with my new fascinations:---really pretty and kinda simple with a fewfewfew pillows instead of a pile.

BLF: How would you express the philosophy behind your designs and what feelings or emotions do you wish to create
through your designs?

CHB: I hope that you know that I cannot bear pretension in any way. Someone slap me if I ever act that way or attempt to create something that pretends pretension. It is what we all wish to create--it is what you and Ron do so beautifully---something that delights the eye and awakens the emotion. Life is messy. I believe that home should be safe haven. Home is "base" in the game. I want our designs to reek of a peaceful but exuberant place.

BLF: Your style has been a huge inspiration to many over the years, but what has been your greatest inspiration?

CHB: Creation-The miraculous,mysterious, indescribably beautiful universe--spoken into reality by a word from the Master Creator

I hope you all enjoyed this peek into the person who is Carol Hicks Bolton as much as I enjoyed interviewing her. It is amazing that after all the years I have known her she still suprises me with her depth of inspiration like an old time magician pulling a rabbit out of his hat------ an old ,well loved, - velveteen - rabbit of course!!!

Carol Hicks Bolton: Antiquities & Laboratoire de Design will be opening in mid January at 301 South Lincoln Street. You may call 830- 997-5551 or go to Carolhicksbolton.com for more information.

A NEW TRADITION and CHRISTMAS VIGNETTES IN OUR HOME

2011-12-24T10:36:00.000-06:00

Well he's done it again. Dream man outdid me last year, and he's outdone himself this year. The present he wrapped for me last year was absolutely beautiful. {You can see it on my post titled "OUTDONE"} And this year it's just as beautiful, if not more so. I think he has started a new tradition!!!
I will be expecting my gift to be wrapped in some creative and elaborate way every year now. Usually, I can't wait to open my present, but I don't mind waiting to open this one because the wrapping is a gift in itself.
He used an old player piano roll, an old porcelain insulator, a 60's gold plastic bird ornament, a vintage millinery flower. and other bits of vintage goodness sprinkled with mica snow. His creativity really astounds me. I love him!!!

And I thought I would show you a few vignettes of our home as we get ready for our Christmas eve gathering of family and friends tonight. Hope you enjoy, and Hope your Christmas is Merry and Bright!!!

RUSTY and REDONE

2011-12-22T11:13:00.000-06:00

In the garage sale section of the Fredericksburg Standard classifieds a few weeks ago, was an add for an in-home vintage sale by Rusty and Redone. I went. And I'm so glad I did!!!! I met a charming young woman called Shannon who had transformed her home into an exciting shopping adventure.

She had draped her furniture in canvas drop cloths and burlap, the walls were hung with paint spattered drop cloths, and there was eye candy everywhere.

Shannon takes unwanted, rusty castoffs, and turns them into one of a kind art, and home decor.

she opened her etsy shop last august - rustyandredone.etsy.com where she sells her wares.

Shannon is a stay at home mom who homeschools her three children ages 9, 11, and 15.

the cute white shelf you see in the back right corner is now in my bathroom

It was only $20.00!!!

so please stop by rustyandredone.etsy.com...you'll be glad you did!!

HAPPY WINTER!!!!

CAROL HICKS BOLTON

2011-12-16T11:30:00.000-06:00

As with all things in life, as one thing passes, another begins. As one door closes, another opens. And so it is with Homestead and Carol Hicks Bolton. Sadly the home furshings and antiques legend which was Homestead has passed. However, a new dawn is approaching, which will reveal something even more grand and beautiful than anyone has ever imagined except Tim and Carol Bolton.
I recently had the great privilege of an inside view into perhaps the inspiration that is about to become Carol Hicks Bolton's newest and grandest adventure yet.

I invite you all to grab a cup of hot cocoa, or hot tea, and sit back in your easy chair to share a glimpse at the great mind and inspiration that is to be the new Carol Hicks Bolton store.

The week after Christmas I will be posting an exclusive, intimate and enlightening interview along with photos of what is becoming. Please join me.

THIS IS THE NEW BUILDING IN THE MIDST OF IT'S METAMORPHOSIS.

Jaxon Ivy Antiques

2011-12-14T08:54:00.000-06:00

I had been seeing this darling girl and her Mom at some of the auctions and sales I attend. They seemed to be drawn to some the same kinds of things I like, so I asked if they had a shop. The daughter, Kate,a very creative twenty something, I learned has a precious little shop at 613 West Main Street in Fredericksburg. It is called Jaxon Ivy. She has a blog, Jaxonivy@blogspot.com and she is on facebook too. And get this....her Mom's name is.....Binky!!! So of course I had to go check out the shop. And you should too. It's tiny, but well displayed with very reasonably priced treasures. They make things too!!!

FREDERICKSBURG CHRISTMAS HOME TOUR

2011-12-12T06:00:00.003-06:00

Oh, oh, oh, What beautiful homes I saw on the Fredericksburg home tour. It was so amazing, I wish I had had more time, I wanted to linger in each home and take it all in. Actually, I wanted to live in each home.

My first stop was the home of Danny and Jill Elliot. Jill and I worked together at Homestead, so we go way back. Her style is absolutely gorgeous!!! Very femanine, very vintage, very beautiful. The Elliot's home was built around 1911 and sits on sixteen acres very close to town. The original rock house had only four rooms. Danny and Jill have lovingly restored the home, and the additions they made blend beautifully with the historic structor. Jill owns the charming shop Haberdashery on Main Street in Fredericksburg.

My next stop was the newly constructed home of Eric and Jennifer Bryla. The home, which was just completed in October of this year, is a mixture of industrial elements with vintage found pieces used as built-ins. Lots of windows allow for spectacular views of the 15 acre property and surrounding hill country.

I couldn't get photos of the next few houses because I didn't know the owners and I didn't have permission, I did get this outside shot.

The Mark and Susan Wheeler home was fabulous. Built in the early 1920's the home was used as a showcase pressed tin by a local salesman. Different patterns of tin were used in the ceilings and walls, and even on the front porch. It was really spectacular.

Chris and Kelly McDaniel's home was stunningly beautiful. They did such a wonderful job redoing it and adding a rock guesthouse. The screened in porch was fantastic, and the outdoor shower was amazing. Margo, owner of Skye and Henry's worked with Kelly on all her window treatments and bed linens, and they were beautiful!!! I took a lot more pictures, but sadly these are the only ones that turned out.

So there you have it, the Fredericksburg Home Tour. Pretty fabulous huh?

LLANO CHRISTMAS HOME TOUR

2011-12-07T22:29:00.000-06:00

Llano's Christmas Home Tour was last Saturday and so was Fredericksburg's. I rushed around to get to the two Christmas bazars in Llano, then to the home tour in Llano, and then ran to Fredericksburg to tour the homes there. It was a long day, but well worth it!!!! I will show you Llano's first and Fredericksburg will be in another post. Most of the homes on the Llano tour were in Castell, a charming little German settlement about 15 miles west of Llano on the Llano River.

The Physician's House was built around 1910. It was once the Castell Pharmacy and home of Dr. and Mrs. Huff. It is now owned by Dennis and Chris Cavner who have completely renovated it.

The Fritz Oestreich House was built by Friedrich (Fritz) Oestreich in the late 1800's and is now owned by Craig and Darlene Spaulding. Fritz was a stone mason and built the home alon the banks of Vasterling Creek. I loved the rock work and the wooden fence and details.

The Lehmberg House which is now the Ranch Home of Bill and Kathy Wallace was one of the first two story homes in the Castell community. in 1872 Carl Lehmberg purchased the general store and post office and moved it to a structure just east of his home. It also became a stagecoach stop. This was the begininng of the town of Castell on the south side of the Llano River. This home has been completely, lovingly and beautifully renovated.

those fabulous kitchen windows overlook the beautiful Llano River!!

Kathy had several pieces from Binky la Faye, including this pillow. I took a picture of a darling display she had done with big jingle bells hanging on the backs of ladder back chairs, but it didn't turn out.

And more shots of some of the other homes that were on the tour.

Stay tuned, Fredericksburg home tour next post!!!!

CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE

2011-11-22T09:44:00.000-06:00

We were so blessed to have so many wonderful friends join us for our Christmas Open House. We even made the local newspaper!!And...the dear sweet charming Kristi Day of junkology.wordpress.com AND.... Anne Lorys, the famous photographer of Fionandtwig.blogspot.com and her charming friend Tom (also a brilliant photographer) graced us with their company. Kristi posted photos on her blog the very next day!!! please stop by her blog and see them. And Anne posted the most beautiful photos on her blog. So you really must go see. I'll show you a few here, but, please go see the rest.

Thank you Anne and Kristi!!! ya'll rock!!

Here are some of my photos of the event.

An old shabby white cabinet filled with vintage Christmas in more traditional red and green colors.

Lace garland above the table by Robin Brown of Magnolia Pearl. Lace pendant lamps by Binky la Faye.

Vintage Christmas glitter house and old light reflectors

Antique iron bed with layered with vintage hand crocheted coverlets.

Spectacular dome and pretty mercury glass finials.

A star and pillows I made.

some burlap stockings I made. The numbers are from graphicsfairy.blogspot.com

My beautiful grandsons, the youngest came to the party as a "snow bunny" (he loves to wear costumes).

The charming Bolton family of Homestead : Tim with Gussie, and Carol with Mac. I have some exiciting news about their next adventure that I will be sharing with you real soon!!!!

THANKSGIVING TABLE

2011-11-13T17:43:00.000-06:00

Before I post pictures of our Christmas Open House, I want to show you the Johnson Brothers Barnyard King plates. These are for sale at Binky la Faye.

Have a blessed and joyous Thanksgiving!!!

Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love.--Hamilton Wright Mabie

2011-11-02T12:55:00.000-05:00

As the Christmas season approaches, we find ourselves reflecting on the past year and on the friendships that have shaped and influenced Binky la Faye in a most profound and significant way. "Things" are fun to aquire and trade, but it is your incouragement and support that we consider to be part of the true miracle of the season. In that spirit we invite you to join us at our Chritmas Open House and Book Signing.

VIVA TERLINGUA!!!

2011-10-16T20:39:00.000-05:00

Ron and I took a little trip to Terlingua last week. Such a different world. I do love my trees and grass and flowers, but there is a certain peaceful beauty to the desert. We had a splendid time.

We rented an adobe called Casa Terlingua.

This was our view from the porch into Big Bend National Park

The ghost town of Terlingua once a thriving mining town

This home is called The Mansion. It was the mine owner's home

There are actually two restored rooms in The Mansion that rented by the night. We thought about staying here, because it is definately our kind of place, but they were booked, and we like having our own bathroom and kitchen. (the bathroom is shared here and there is no kitchen)

The old Church is being restored

There has always been something about old cemeteries that intriques me. The one in Terlingua is pretty facinating.

We spent a wonderful day in Big Bend, went to Marfa to try to see the lights, no such luck for the second time, and then on to Fort Davis. I won't bore you with those pictures. It was a great trip, but we're glad to be home. Oh and it rained 6 inches while we were gone!!!!!

MORE PRETTY BOOTHS

2011-10-14T21:13:00.000-05:00

Here are some shots of Theresa's booth at Zapp Hall.

I didn't get this guys name, but he had a cute booth. I think he said he was from Waco.

This is Linda and Ludmill's booth

and this is Judy Hill's booth

Isn't all that talent amazing? Yall know how bad I am with computer stuff. I tried to put links to everyones blog or website, but it didn't work. Sorry. If someone could explain it to me I would be forever grateful.

MAGNOLIA PEARL at MARBURGER FARM

2011-10-06T09:11:00.000-05:00

Ron and I were honored to be asked to help Robin and John of Magnolia Pearl style their booth at Marburger Farm. It was alot of hard work, not to mention that it was 106 degrees. But also alot of fun. There is something so satisfying about seeing a thing of beauty being created from start to finish, and to have a hand in it is even better. We were fed very well on fresh organic foods and really just had a wonderful time.

Next time I will show other beautiful booths at Marburger and Warrenton.

GATHERINGS GARAGE SALE AND HALLOWEEN

2011-09-27T22:01:00.000-05:00

Jesika (my fabulous, incredible, wonderful, beautiful daughter) and I took a little trip to Georgetown, Texas a couple of weeks ago to treasure hunt at Gatherings' Garage Sale. Stephanie and her crew have a couple of great garage sales every year. The shop looked wonderul as always and was all done up for Halloween. We found great stuff at the garage sale and in the shop.

These three shots are just some of the garage sale area.

This Halloween display greeted us as we walked in the front door.

More great halloween.

A pretty display

Lots and lots of lovely lace.

Love old typewritters. Someday I want to do a whole wall in them!!!

And yet another wonderful display

Great place, Huh?

Ron and I just got back from Round Top/Warrenton where we shopped till we dropped (one night we were still shopping until 11), helped Robin and John style the Magnolia Pearl booth at Marberger Farm, and attended Theresa Cano's Garden Antiques Vintage blog party. All of that in the next blog.

WE INTERUPT HALLOWEEN TO BRING YOU THIS!!! SKYE AND HENRY'S

2011-09-19T21:41:00.000-05:00

I know I promised you more Halloween, and more you shall see, but I wanted to show you Skye and Henry's in Fredericksburg, Texas. The sweet owner, Margo Andregg and I go way back, We both worked together at Homestead back in the day and have been friends ever since. When she decided to move her store to a wonder old historic building on West Main in Fredericksburg, she called and asked if I could help with some styling. Take a look.

Go by and see all the fabulous fabrics, beautiful beds, and awesome antiques at Skye and Henry's. Next time I'll show you pics of Gatherings in Georgetown, Texas.

HALLOWEEN OPEN HOUSE Part 2

2011-09-07T09:25:00.000-05:00

And as promised here is more of the Open House.

Loved this area. Most of this sold including the fainting couch, the skeleton, the deer painting and the quilt. But we still have lots and lots of great stuff left!!!!

My dear sweet friend Robin Brown of Magnolia Pearl, yall know who she is, well she is one of the most generous, giving people I have ever been blessed to know. She sent me these wonderful ballet shoes along with a Magnolia Pearl silk dress, "just cuz". What a treat!!!! She had used the slippers as props in her booth at Marburger Farm and you all know how fabulous her booth is. Anyway we hung them over this bed, and I loved the way they looked.

This is our alchemist's den

A wide shot of part of our Black and white display.

Thats all for now, but there is still much more to show you, so check back soon.

FALL / HALLOWEEN OPEN HOUSE PICS

2011-09-06T08:43:00.000-05:00

All last week while we were moving around furniture, hanging and re-hanging mirrors, and fall and halloween banners, cleaning, dusting, sweeping and vacuuming and pulling out all our stockpiled fall and halloween merchandise getting ready for our Fall and Halloween Open house, it was hard to think about Fall. The thermometer was still topping out at over a 100 degrees everyday. But the day of the open house even the weather seemed to cooperate, and it was a little cooler, and felt a little more fall-ish. We had a great turnout and lots of compliments on the store. And best of all, we had some great sales!!! That is the best compliment of all.

So the evening before our little shindid I snapped these pictures of vultures circling near the store. How apropos, huh?

A wide shot of one display

Here are some of the things I made.

"Raven" box.

Happy Haunting box.

Fall and Halloween crowns. The one on the concrete statue sold first thing.

The black velvet pumpkin flew out the door, and the burlap covered rocker has found a new home too!!!

Pumpkins, Pumpkins everywhere. The fabulous old rope has left the building.

I covered these large votive holders with burlap and added the sull in top hat image.

Gotta run, but the there is lots more to show you. Check back in a day or two for part 2.

Sneak Peak at Whimsey's Halloween Display

2011-08-29T22:40:00.000-05:00

Don't forget about Binky la Faye and Whimsey's Autumn/Halloween Open house this Thursday night from 6:30 to 9:00.

Today we were redoing the store for the upcoming Open House, now Monday's are not usually a really busy day for us, but today that was not the case. We had the store torn apart everywhere and the customers just kept comming!!! We brought in an antique iron bed and before I could get it dressed it sold!! Went home and got the antique french iron bed off my back porch and had just gotten it put up when a sweet dealer from Comfort came in and said she wanted to buy it. (she changed her mind at the last minute so it's still available) All this to say, the store is still a HUGE mess, So lots of work to do before the Open House. We sold lots of stuff today, but I promise I'm holding back the new fall and Halloween merch. til Thursday. Be there at 6:30 to see it all!!! and to temp you even furthur... Here are a few shots of Whimsey's fall and Halloween decor

Call us at 325-247-2500 for more info.

YOU'RE INVITED

2011-08-26T19:20:00.000-05:00

HOPE YOU CAN COME!!!

HALLOWEEN OPEN HOUSE

2011-08-25T09:44:00.000-05:00

Iknow, I know, it's too hot to think about Halloween and Autumn. But it is just right around the corner, so to give yall a jump start on Fall Festivities, Binky la Faye along with Whimsies will be hosting our Fall/Halloween Open House on Thursday September 1st, 2011 from 6:30 to 9:00 pm.

That's right, both shops will be brimming with Fall Finery and Halloween Hoopla!!!

And as usual things will be displayed in curious and creative fashion for your visual pleasure.

We will be unveiling our oddities, some of which are one of a kind handmade pieces

And as a sweet treat, our special guests and local artists Autumn Williams and Mandy along with our own altered art artist Jane Lynch will be showing some of their macabre creations

So, please, do join us, have a sip of sangria, nibble on some finger food, and experience Fall and Halloween at Binky la Faye and Whimsies. 303 and 305 Bessemer Avenue, Llano, Texas 325-247-2500

1st SNEAK PEAK at HALLOWEEN

2011-08-20T16:45:00.000-05:00

As promised, here is a sneak peak at some of the autumn and halloween things I have been making for our upcoming Open House which will be Thursday, September 1, 2011 from 6:30 to 9:00 pm. These items and many more will be unveiled then.If you would like to get an email invitation, please call the store at 325-247-2500 and ask to be put on our email list. Watch this blog for more peaks at what we have in store!!! We would love to see you there!!!

TRADE DAYS in FREDERICKSBURG

2011-08-18T13:19:00.000-05:00

If you are going to be anywhere near Fredericksburg this weekend be sure to go out to TRADE DAYS.

Check out the cute buildings

These gals are as fun and sweet as any you will ever meet, and their little house and vintage trailer always have fun finds.

How cute is the veggie stand?

And check out this trailer by the owner of Trade Days, it's so darling!!!

SAVE THE DATE!!!! SEPTEMBER 1st, 2011
Binky la Faye will be hosting our Autumn/Halloween Open House on Thursday September 1st, 2011 from 6:30 to 9:00 pm. We have some great new merch that we will be unveiling along with a few other suprises!!! Watch this blog for sneak peaks and further details. If you would like to be sent an email about the Open House please call the Store at 325-247-2500 and ask to be put on our email list.

COMMING UP FOR AIR

2011-08-09T08:43:00.000-05:00

Oh, Oh, Oh, I know I've been terrible at blogging lately. Please forgive. I won't ramble on with excuses, but just know that it will happen from time to time as things that are nearer and dearer to my heart need my attention.

But I will always come back.

Before I get to some new pics of the shop I want to talk a little bit about the weather here. We are breaking records everyday here in the central Texas Hill Country. We have had no significant rain since last September. July was the hottest EVER RECORDED. Our high temps have not been below 100 in 20 something days, and here in Llano our highs have been 106 to 108, we even got in a 110. The Llano River (the only source of water for the city of Llano) is flowing at critical rates. And there is no relief in sight.

Trees are dying, wildlife is suffering terribly, yards and gardens are burnt to a crisp, it's the worst I have ever seen. Our lawn and gardens were just about gone when we decided to try to restore an old water well on our property. We didn't know if it still had water or if so, how much, but my dear brother, who is very mechanically inclined, got it up and going for us. So we are now able to keep our trees and some of lawn and gardens alive, just barely. When we take our walk at 9:30 in the evening the temp. still reads 97. So prayers for rain for our parched land, and starving wildlife are very much needed.

On the positive side of things business has be great, and we have some new things in the shop:

Pretty creams and whites

Some fun new jewelry

Love this altered art sand shovel by local artist Jane Lynch

Some shell art pieces

WE ARE PLANNING A FALL/HALLOWEEN OPEN HOUSE AT THE SHOP. I HAVE BEEN COLLECTING FUN FALL AND HALLOWEEN STUFF ALL YEAR. AND WE WILL BE UNVEILING SOME NEW PILLOWS AND OTHER ONE OF KIND ITEMS THAT WE HAVE BEEN WORKING ON, SO STAY TUNED FOR MORE INFO!!!

HOMESTEAD CLOSING

2011-06-22T08:29:00.000-05:00

All good things must end, or so they say. Tim and Carol Bolton have sold the wonderful old building that houses HOMESTEAD and the building must be vacated soon. Tim is discounting merchandise, so stop in soon.

Ron and I are off to Dallas for the wholesale Home and Gift show. We are hoping to find some wonderful Halloween and Christmas decor and some fun jewelry and gifts. We'll keep ya posted!!!

HATS OFF

2011-06-14T08:13:00.000-05:00

This is what I have been doing lately - making hats for my sweet friend Maryrose Monroe (isn't that a fabulous name?) She has an accessories line that includes hair bands, hats, flowers, etc. I was so flattered that she asked me to help her design some hats for her line. For purchasing information email her at maryrosemonroe@hotmail.co.uk.

INDEPENDENCE

2011-06-08T12:44:00.000-05:00

The Fourth of July is fast approaching and we have devoted an area of the shop to celebrate INDEPENDENCE!!!! We have faded vintage flags, and all manner of things red, white and blue, and some classic Americana, like Raggedy Ann and Andy. So start thinking about your July 4th celebration and stop in and see if we can help you make it more beautiful!!!

And this is what Ron and I did at Summerhouse for their Fourth of July display

STORE PICS

2011-06-06T12:03:00.000-05:00

Sorry, I'm running a million miles an hour, trying to fit 48 hours into 24, so I'm a woman of few words, but since a picture tells a thousand words let the pictures speak for themselves. Love and Peace, Binky

AND THE WINNER IS.....

2011-06-01T22:43:00.000-05:00

TO ALL OF YOU WHO ENTERED THE PAPER SCRAP PRISM GIVEAWAY - A VERY WARM THANK YOU. IT IS ALWAYS SO FUN TO READ ALL THE NICE COMMENTS. THANKS ALSO TO THOSE OF YOU WHO ARE NOW FOLLOWING MY BLOG. SO, THE WINNER IS KAREN SCHAEFER OF THE BLOG SHE USES HER WORDS. CONGRATS KAREN, I WILL BE SENDING YOUR PRISM SOON. THANKS AGAIN EVERYONE FOR MAKING MY FIRST TUTORIAL AND GIVEAWAY A SUCCESS!!! I'LL DO ANOTHER ONE SOON.

LOVE TO ALL, Binky

STORE FLUFF UP AND NEW FINDS!!!!

2011-05-28T10:12:00.000-05:00

We have fluffed and redone and brought in some new finds. Stop in and take a peek around.

Here is the redo of our pastel area, with the cute yellow, pink and white dresser we just brought in. The yellow tutu is hanging over a light fixture.

Another wonderful white vintage tutu shown with a vintage peach rayon bed jacket. The dresser they are displayed on is a victorian piece with wonderful original pink crackled paint!!!

A charming stack of vintage feather ticking pillows.

A heap of wonderful millenery flowers that Jesika found.

A vignette of cotton candy colored smalls

I ADORE this old souvenir beaded boot pin cushion!!!

And this equally as charming small Mary statue in pretty pastels.

Isn't this old talcum tin sweet?

More store pics comming soon.

Don't forget to leave a comment on the May 16th post to be entered to win this

I will announce the winner on June 1st!!!

HAVE A HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND!!!!

and another view of the pillows because everytime I try to delete this picture blogger yells error. lol.

THERESA'S BEAUTIFUL BOOTH AT BINKY LA FAYE

2011-05-22T12:57:00.000-05:00

We are so thrilled to announce that the fabulous Theresa Cano of the famous blog Gardenantqsvintage.blogspot.com is selling her wonderful wares at Binky la Faye. She and her husband came in last week and created some display magic. They are both such charming, sweet people, with a wonderful talent for finding and styling really great antique and vintage goods. Please stop in soon and see for yourself!!!

look at all these great gilt frames!!!

and how cute is this purse made from an old baby dress??? love it!!!

great vintage portrait in oil

love these old canvas golf bags.

great vignettes

wonderfully charming smalls.

Theresa herself made this beautiful pillow from vintage textiles and adorned it with found objects.

Great graphics on this fun piece

Customers are raving about how wonderful Theresa's booth is, and Ron and I are so happy to have such great people joining our shop. We are sure it will be a long lasting relationship.

for more about Theresa and all that she does visit her blog at www.gardenantqsvintage.blogspot.com

and if you would be interested in winning the paperscrap prism please leave a post on my may 16th blog.
Thanks for stopping by!!!

SCRAP PAPER PRISM, My first tutorial, and GIVEAWAY!!!!!

2011-05-16T13:03:00.000-05:00

Well I know I've been absent from blogland for awhile, but I'm back with my first tutorial and giveaway!! I hope yall like it.It is a double sided paper scrap prism. It's easy, inexpensive, and you probably have alot of the stuff you need to make it.Forgive the bad pics. So here goes.

I found these light covers for 50 cents each

I tore them apart to get the glass "prisms" out.

I found this really great paper at the scrapbooking store in Fredericksburg, Texas.

Cut out the image of the lady. Trace around the prism for the background paper and cut that out.

Cut out the butterfly and text of your choice, my text came out of an old man old magazine.

Next, you glue the lady image onto the background piece and then layer the butterfly and the text over that. Then put a few dabs of glue,(i used elmers craft bond) onto the glass. Don't worry the glue will dry clear.

Now you can make a one sided prism, but I chose to do a two sided one, so the next thing you will need is more images for the bback side. I used old sheet music, a color copy of an old watch face and a color copy of an old calling card, a piece of a paper tape measure and a snipet of old lace.

Next, layer the pieces onto the background in a pleasing fashion and glue them down. Then glue the whole piece to the glass the same way you did the first one.

Now you have your front and your back pieces.

Now you will cut a piece of ribbon (I used rayon seam binding) and tie a knot in it leaving "tails"

Glue the ribbon to the back side of one the prisms with the knot above the glass on the top.

Next you will glue the front and back together.Let that dry a couple of hours. Then tear a srip from a piece of tea stained muslin about 1/2 inch wide.

It helps to iron the muslin strip. Then place a bead of glue around the edge of the prims starting at the top where the ribbon is.

center on end of the muslin strip at the top of the prisms and glue it down. Then add a tiny bead of glue around the edge of the prisms to glue down the remaining muslin. Next you can add ribbon and lace bows, buttons, and old earring, or whatever you like to the top. I used some old lace and milleners flowers. TA-DA thats it. Hang and enjoy!!!

SO THIS IS ALSO MY FIRST GIVEAWAY. LEAVE A COMMENT FOR A CHANCE TO WIN THE PRISM FEATURED IN THIS BLOG. FOLLOWERS WHO LEAVE A COMMENT WILL HAVE TWO CHANCES. I WILL ANNOUNCE THE WINNER ON JUNE 1ST. Please be sure I can reach you by email to get your mailing address. BEST WISHES!!!!

I would love to see yours, send me pics and I will post them on my blog!!!

Family First

2011-05-05T08:56:00.000-05:00

Back in January I did a post about my goals for 2011. I said that antique-ing, making things, fixing things up and all that are important to me, and I enjoy doing it, but what I consider my greatest accomplishments and what matters the most to me is my relationship with God and my Family and Friends.

So someone I love very much is going through a very trying time right now, and needs my attention and energy. Please bear with me as I take a little more time away from blogging to create what is most important, and that, to me, is loving, nurturing relationships. I will be back, because I want to nurture

(our recent camping trip to Inks Lake State Park)

the relationships I have with all of you too. I am working on my first tutorial, so stay tuned. And please pray for my loved one and for me, that I would have the wisdom and strength to do what needs to be done. Thank you all, I will be back soon. With Love, Binky

HAPPY EASTER

2011-04-21T23:03:00.000-05:00

I found this bunny suit at the thrift store awhile back. I knew when I saw it that I wanted my grandsons to wear it for some cute Easter pics. I had to bribe them with candy and legos to get them to put it on for these pics. Wishing you a joyous and Blessed Easter.

SAINT THERESA

2011-04-20T22:20:00.000-05:00

On Saturday last our store was graced by the sweet and talented Theresa of Garden Antqs Vintage. I was so sad that I wasn't there to meet her,(I have loved her blog for a long time) but Ron got to meet her and experience her delightful, joyful, enthusiastic (his words) personality. We are so honored that she did such a wonderful post of our store on her famous blog. Please go check it out at Gardenantqs.blogspot.com Thank you Theresa, you are a saint!!! Here is a picture of Theresa, Her friend,( and now ours) Felicia, and Ron.

I am a pack rat. Okay, so now it's out. I save things, Ron would say HOARD. So maybe it's true, maybe I am a hoarder, but at least I hoard good stuff. And I have been trying to use up some of my stash (so I can make room for more, but don't tell Ron). I used some of my salvaged lace scraps to cover this vanity bench. I was going to keep it, but decided to sell it, so it's in the shop now, but the pics were taken at home.

Thank you all for stopping by, and again, a HUGE thanks to Theresa for all her support!!! Yall go check out her blog, it's good!!!

LACE TOTES AND MORE

2011-04-13T09:45:00.000-05:00

These darling totes are made with vintage lace and other found embellishments, by my daughter Jesika's BFF Rachel. Jesika and Rachel share my spaces at Binky la Faye and help me do the styling. Aren't the bags great!!! Come check them out in person at Binky la Faye.

A wide shot of the Easter Table area

When the first center piece on the Easter table sold I added this rusty wire basket, now it's sold, so I need to find something else, but the wreath, eggs, nest and egg crate are still available!!!

Antoher little vintage Easter vignette

Ron and I are planning our Easter celebration. The Boy's want a pinata this year, but we will still do an egg hunt too. What are you planning for Easter?

WEEKEND TREASURE HUNT

2011-04-11T21:32:00.000-05:00

Spent the whole weekend treasure hunting. Even Sunday. There was a wonderful estate auction on Sunday, got some really great things. But here is what I found on Friday.

Now I have to get it all priced and into the store. Should be done in the next couple of days. Come by and check it out!!!

OLD DICTIONARY PAGES

2011-04-07T22:56:00.000-05:00

i needed something to put in these frames at the store, so I tore some pages out of an old dictionary, found some cool copyright free images (check graphicsfairy.blogspot.com)and printed the images onto the dictionary pages, problem is about every other page got jammed, so it took alot of patience, need to figure out a better way to do it, but I really loved how they turned out and I can envision all sorts of things to do with them besides framing them. Thanks for stopping by!!!

EASTER TABLE

2011-04-06T16:12:00.000-05:00

Gosh Easter is so late this year. But I kinda like it because everything will be green and the flowers will be blooming and surely it will be warm. Here is a little Easter tablescape at Binky la Faye. I made the eggs by covering those cheap plastic ones in old dictionary pages, my mom made the nests, and the crosses I made by wiring old lace to fallen twigs. And speaking of twigs, The beautiful Anne Lorys of Fiona and Twig is having a fabulous giveaway, check it out at fionaandtwig.blogspot.com!!!

MORE STUDIO TOUR

2011-04-01T21:48:00.000-05:00

This is Danielle Carmichael and her wonderful studio and business Thou Art, isn't that a cute name!!!She and her mom Connie Bishop are two very talented ladies.

Danielle made this dress!!!!!!!!

Connie's husband Marion does life casting, how cool are these?

Harriet Myrick is a true artist in every sense of the word. Her studio is a calm light filled space where she creates her magic.

Lou Quallenberg is a furniture maker extraodiniare. His work has been published in national magazines and is in several galleries including in London!!! He works with Texas mesquite. He and his beautiful wife Cheryl are lovely people.

Lou gave a demonstration on inlaying turquoise to a big crowd.

My dear friend Robin Cheisa and her sweetheart Russell Baros were showing some of their art at the Quallenberg Studio. Robin owns Circle Gallery and Russell makes saddles and other leather goods, and he is ALWAYS dressed in fabulously authentic old west apparel.

Bob and Lisa Pheil - She is a basket weaver and he is an amazing blacksmith. His studio is every man's dream.

Janet Mason, Brenda Mason, and Brenda's 3 beautiful daughters have this darling shop, A rosy outlook, and in the back is a studio where classes are given, they are all so creative and fun. Check them out at arosyoutlook.typepad.com and bohocircus.typepad.com

WHEW, long post, and I didn't even get to see the other 10 or so studios on the tour. Maybe next year. And here is a little sneak peak at what I'll be showing you in my next post:

Have a wonderful weekend!!!

@ L.A.S.T. or Llano Art Studio Tour

2011-03-31T09:43:00.000-05:00

I was honored to be asked to participate in Llano's first annual art studio tour or @ L.A.S.T. If you remember one of my first post of 2011, one of my goals this year is to turn one of our outbuildings into my studio. (no progress made on that yet, keep your fingers crossed). So even though I am studio-less, unless you count the livingroom floor a studio, I was asked to participate by showing some of my work at another artists studio. There were five artists plus the studio owner at this particular location. There were 16 studios on the tour. I managed to break away from my booth long enough to see 5 of them, It was fabulous to see the artists working in their own environment. You really must plan to attend next year, the only problem is that it is during Warrenton, so I plan to try to get the date changed.

this is the wonderful compound of artist Linda Gammage, where I showed my work.

this is Linda's darling potters studio

Some of her pottery,

Some of my work

Gotta go get some junk, more studio tour in my next post, stay tuned. Oh and the Llano Fiddle Fest is this weekend in Llano, if you've never been to a fiddle fest you must come, Lots of old time fiddl'n goin' on. See ya next time!!!

A WONDERFUL SUPRISE AT HOMESTEAD

2011-03-29T21:15:00.000-05:00

Well I was just doing my weekly gig at Homestead in Fredericksburg today. and into the store comes a lovely lady whose blog I have admired for a long time. I was so excited to get to meet the beautiful, charming, talented Anne Lorys of Fiona and Twig www.fionaandtwig.blogspot.com. She is truly a sweet girl, and how about those photos!!! Anne if you are reading this I just want you to know what a pleasure it was to get to meet you today. Your down to earth attitude is very genuine and refreshing. Hope to see you again soon!!!

And for your viewing pleasure, here are some pics of Homestead:

Hope you're having a beautiful early spring!!!

IT'S HERE!!!!

2011-03-21T10:24:00.000-05:00

They are so amazing.After a record breaking cold winter, unyeilding drought, tropical force winds, hail, ice, and not to mention last summer's heat, they came, right on que, draping the landscape in resplendant glory; their brilliance a testament to the lavish and abundant gifts God gives us in this season of spring. In gratitude I share with you the beauty God has given us in our humble little cottage garden.

We have our garden started. Dream man Ron, turned the soil by hand with a pitch fork, we are tillerless you see. Hope we get rain soon!!! Spring Blessings to All.

SWEET TWINS

2011-03-19T23:15:00.000-05:00

This pair of twin beds came from an estate in Art, Texas. All the crocheted bedspreads in the pictures are available at Binky la Faye, as is the collection of vintage dust pans and the creamy end tables/night stands. And isn't that little awening cute. There is lots of vintage sheet music and the concrete statue is still available. We have had a very busy week at the store, with things flying out the door, so do hurry in and find a little something to decorate your dwelling for spring!!!

COLOR

2011-03-16T08:20:00.000-05:00

I love whites, creams, tans, faded to nothing soft colors, and I am usually drawn to them, but sometimes the energy of bold COLOR does a soul good. It's like a shot of B12!! We always have a couple of vignettes with color in the store. Here are a few

HAVE A BEAUTIFUL COLORFUL DAY!!!!

SUMMERHOUSE part TWO

2011-03-14T20:45:00.000-05:00

Here are the pictures of Summerhouse, the store in Marble Falls Texas that Ron and I styled, after we tweaked it. If you're in Marble Falls you really should go by and see them. They are on Historic Main Street in a wonderful old building.

NEW PRETTIES

2011-03-12T23:31:00.000-06:00

Some new merch in new displays, love the vintage slips(most are never worn with the original price tags...from a fabulous estate sale held recently) Don't they look pretty all haning together? more to come!!! Thank you all for stopping and thank you for all your sweet comments.

ABSOLUTELY ENCHANTING

2011-03-09T22:13:00.000-06:00

Aren't they beautiful!!! Our three peacocks were a gift from my sweet sister, I had always wanted peacocks and she got these guys for us about 3 years ago. They loose their feathers in August and they start getting them back in December, but they aren't fully plummed until early spring. I took these pictures yesterday, and I remain in awe of their beauty!!!

New pics of the shop comming soon!!!

Summer House

2011-03-08T20:38:00.000-06:00

Ron and I sometimes do visual styling for other stores and individuals. On Monday we did some work for a shop in Marble Falls, Texas called Summer House. We had a great time working with Rita, Carla, and Caroline. and the guys Marco and Elviro. They had moved into a new building and we had just one day to do the whole store. Needless to say we didn't finish and we are going back next week to fine tune. He are a few shots, sorry they aren't very good, it was late, dark and we were tired and in a hurry to get home. I will try to remember to take more pics next week. Ron took a vidio, you can see it on youtube, type in: ron/binky @ summerhouse

Longing for Spring

2011-02-17T10:24:00.000-06:00

This glorious warmness we have been having the last few days really has me longing for color in the yard. I can't wait until our yard looks like this again!!!

Until then I will enjoy these Valentine's flowers from my Dream Man. They are larkspurs, my personal favorite flower!!!

Hope you are having a lovely day.

HEARTS AT HOME

2011-02-09T21:41:00.000-06:00

Well since I couln't move around much the first couple of days after my surgery, I sat around stitching (totally by hand) these little hearts for my home.

And here are some shots of my dining room table, I literally just threw this together in less than 5 minutes, Just wanted to have a little bit of Love. Got the little heart cookies at dollar general ($2 for 10) I wouldn't dare eat them, but they are cute for decoration (should've taken the plastic off though)

and here is a pillow I got a few years ago at one of Homestead's warehouse sales

HOPE YOU HAVE A WARM COZY EVENING!!!

Pink Coffee Filter Wreath

2011-02-06T13:55:00.000-06:00

Here is my pink coffee filter valentine wreath.

This was my first project using coffee filters. I have wanted to make something with them for a long time, and finally got around to it. After I made the wreath, Jesika and Rachel and I redid the window at Binky la Faye with flowers made from coffee filters and crumpled sheet music. I'll show you that in a few days when I get back on my feet (after 10 months of trying every natural and homeopathic thing I could find, I finally succumbed to having my stone ridden gallbladder removed on Friday, ouch, But my sweetheart Ron, is the best boy nurse in the world and is waiting on me hand and foot, so I should be up and around again soon) Here are a couple of other Valentine shots at the store:

With Love

2011-01-27T10:11:00.000-06:00

When I started this blog I never thought I would have "real followers". Little ole me posting from Little ole Llano, with my Daughter, my Momma, and my sister as my only followers for the longest time. I wish they would call it supporters, or maybe even just friends, but anyway I want to thank you all for being my blog friends and supporters. I'm so not tech savvy, and haven't figured out how to answer the comments yall leave me, but please know that I read and appreciate every one.

So it is with love to yall that I show you the Valentine boxes that I made recently. They are just the empty heart shaped Valentine candy boxes that I embellished with paper, fabric, lace, and other odd bits. Super easy,but a bit time consuming to get all the red covered with sheet music. Hope this inspires yall to make one of your own. Or if you would prefer instant gratification, these are avaliable in Binky la Faye now (325)-247-2500.

Llano City Wide Garage Sale Finds

2011-01-23T13:11:00.000-06:00

The Llano Main Street Program and the Freinds of the Historic Llano Red Top Jail put on the Llano city wide garage sale twice a year. The first one of the year was Saturday and I thought I would share some of my finds with you.

It wasn't a huge hall, but I love the things I found.

I've always been attracked to tiny little things.

Love this old violin with bow and case. It's in the store now, priced at $69.00.

Precious little string frame, aged to just the right color, also for sale at Binky la Faye ($12.00)

Look at this pretty 1920's ribbon flower brooch. It can be yours for $16.50.

More tiny bits, these I will use in making jewelry.

Wonderful little leather baseball glove, the lady I bought it from thought it might be a salesmans sample. I think it would lovely worn from a ribbon or chain as a necklace!!! Also available at Binky la Faye.

Charming satin and lace power puff, for sale at the shop

What is it about baby shoes?

This victorian velvet sewing bag caught my eye right away.

always love these old wooden tool boxes, this one has a wonderful shade of pink paint!! $18.50 at the shop now

So excited to find this for $5.00!!!I am adding this sailor's valentine shell art box to my collection of shell art (I'll show it to you sometime)

Mother of pearl buttons for 10 cents each, I will use this in pillow, and altered art projects.

Old fountain pen tips, I plan to make a necklace with these.

Neat old cloth tape measure

Love the metallic fringe on this old odd fellows fraternal ribbon

Lovely silk ribbon fringed shawl.

pretty metal mesh bag, lovely patina, not too shiny you know.

There was lots of lovely ephemera starting at 50 cents, here are a couple of pieces I picked up.

So that's my treasure, most of it is for sale at Binky la Faye. Please stop in soon!!! or call 325-247-2500, we can ship it to you!!!

Be Mine

2011-01-18T11:55:00.000-06:00

I had a little Valentine crown making party a few weeks ago. My daughter Jesika and her best friend Rachel came over and we made these cute crowns

They are for sale at Binky la Faye ($32.50 each), 325-247-2500, and we can mail them anywhere in the U.S.A.

And... we are working on more Valentine projects to be revealed shortly, until then here are some teaser pics!!!

So glad the sun is back, hope you're having a sunny day!!!

What is Steampunk?

2011-01-12T20:01:00.000-06:00

What is steampunk?....I think it is really a counter-culture movement that it's part of the cultural revolution, But me being the visual type I want to talk about what steampunk LOOKS like.Well I think it's hard to define a look or lifestyle, it's like saying, "what is bohemian"?, or, "what is shabby chic"? or, "what is beautiful?" Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so steampunk can mean something entirely different to you than it does to me, or even those who are completely immersed in a steampunk lifestyle - because the same thing resinates differently to each and every person, but just as in shabby chic's signature creamy whites, and chippy paint, and philosophy, steampunk has it's unmistakable elements and philosophy also. So while I personally will probably never donn a pair of goggles and a leather corset (unless it's halloween), I do love many of the steampunk elements, and might decorate with a pair of goggles and a leather corset. And while I love and admire a total steampunk look, It's just not who I am right now, so I throw in a few industrial pieces here and there with my victoriana,sort of a nod to steampunk. I don't think steampunk can be defined really, but that is my is my description of what steampunk is to me. Here are some definitions I found on the web:•is set in an era or world where steam power is still widely used—usually the 19th century, and often set in Victorian era England—but with prominent elements of either science fiction or fantasy, such as fictional technological inventions,

•An imaginary Victorian age, that features brass and copper clockwork and steampowered inventions that go far beyond 1800's technology. Steam powered mechanical wonders, optimistic gear driven computers, dirigibles, clockwork firsts, and stuff like that. (But don't forget the goggles.

•Victorian Science Fiction that has dark & ominous tones, often where technology is an enslaving force and the main characters are fighting against the oppressive establishment. Cyberpunk with steam technology.

And here is a nod to steampunk at Binky la Faye

My friends Sarah Kammlah and Cecilia Berber-Thayer design some Fabulous Steampunk style furniture It's called Kammlah-Thayer for Carol Hicks Bolton. It's all made in the U.S.A. and has hand done detail work, I am proud to say that I made some of the pillows and lighting in the collection. Here are some pics of their showroom in High Point, North Carolina.

To me this is the epitamy of Steampunk

I did the pillows on this.

Great stuff huh? So go dig up some old factory cogs, dust off the industrial metal cart, pull out the the old pocket watches, goggles, and leather bound books and create your own nod to steampunk!!!

I will show you some of the other incredible looks from the Kammlah-Thayer for Carol Hicks Bolton Line in another post.

Thanks for stopping by.

HOMESTEAD...PRETTY AS EVER

2011-01-11T21:01:00.000-06:00

Did some display work at Homestead in Fredericksburg today, here are some shots.

Homestead has some great vintage jewelry

New Finds at Binky la Faye

2011-01-10T17:59:00.000-06:00

It always seems a little more difficult finding good junk this time of the year, but we keep searching far and wide and always manage to come up with some new finds. Here are a few pictures of some of the new arrivals.

I,m drawn to green right now, maybe in anticipation of spring. Love this yard long of white roses with green leaves.

Some new altered art by Jane Lynch, so, so cute!!!

Goals for 2011

2011-01-06T19:58:00.000-06:00

What I'm about to blog about in this post is fun and important to me, but what i consider my most important goals and my greatest accomplishments always have to do with relationships. Relationships with family and friends. So while I hope to get all these fun material things acclomplished, they can wait another year if they have to, but the things done with and for family and friends will always come first for me.

So with that being said, The first on a long long list of projects to get accomplished...

This chest of drawers...

Turned into this, with the help of some old sheet music and a jar of mod podge

Some raw materials for other things I hope to get accomplished this year.

Tea dyed lace awaiting transformation into clothing, pillows, curtains, lamp shades....... oh the possibilities!!!!

Some beautiful bits of vintage goodness waiting to be given new life as pretty layered necklaces.

There are many other ideas rolling around in my head too. I have an idea for an old bicycle, lots of funky lighting ideas, pillows, altered art, lamp shades, sea shell art, a succulent wreath,..... on and on, But the biggest project I would love to get accomplished is to turn an old outbuilding we have into my studio this year, we'll see, it's a pretty tall order because it has no electricity, no water, no glass in one of the windows. But maybe, just maybe.........

LLANO IN TOP 10 True West Magazine's top 10 real western towns!!!!

2011-01-03T16:07:00.000-06:00

Top 10 True Western Towns of 2011
Given to towns that have made an important contribution to preserving their pasts.

Llano really hasn't changed that much, we still have no big box stores, everyone still knows everyone, and the river still runs right through the middle of it.

I have just added some websites links to show why a visit Llano would be a fun experience.

By: TW Editors 12/16/2010

10. LLANO, TX

An old courthouse says a lot about a place.

Take the one in the middle of the town square in Llano, Texas. It was built in 1893, replacing the first courthouse that was destroyed by fire the previous year. The town made the new one stu

rdy, with the exterior composed of sandstone, marble and granite—a big reason why it survived interior fires in 1932 and 1952. It was renovated in 2002, and the cupola was restored in 2009. Today, the courthouse—listed on the National Register—is still used as a government building.

That’s par for the course for this “Hub of the Texas Hill Country.” Llano not only preserves its heritage, the town finds new uses for it—and that’s why it’s our #10 True Western Town.

In Llano, the downtown area is centered on an old-time square (with the courthouse as the signature structure). The 1900 Bruhl Drugstore building houses the Llano County Historical Museum. The 1892 Railroad Depot is a visitor center and home of the chamber of commerce. Another 1892 building, the Acme dry goods, is a restaurant. And the First National Bank Building, constructed in 1891, is now the recently renovated Badu House, which is due to re-open as a beer & wine bar and bed & breakfast this spring.

On top of that, Llano boasts historic structures that still operate as they did in the past—like the 1898 Corner Drug Store and the 1907 Dabbs Rail Road Hotel, which was recently renovated and operates as a bed and breakfast. Hasse’s Hardware, dating to 1938, is still owned and operated by the same family.

Preservation efforts are ongoing in Llano. The local Main Street project has been instrumental in obtaining funds for a variety of projects, including the renovation and stabilization of the 1895 “Red Roof” Jail (which gained the nickname because of the roof color, of course). The group offers a historic walking tour of the downtown area.

Llano is also well known for its big historical events and festivals. An annual Texas Proud Festival features the largest re-enactment competition in the state. The Texas Gold Panning Championship is held each year along the banks of the Llano River as part of the Gold and Gem Rendezvous. Llano County Heritage Days features a ranch rodeo and gunfight re-enactments. And, since 2005, the town has hosted a chuckwagon cook-off. That’s quite a bit of action for a town of about 3,300 citizens.

Visitors are also drawn by the natural beauty of the Hill Country, with its wooded rises and valleys. Many hunters travel to the area each fall and winter to go after the abundant white tailed deer. Fishing takes place year round in the Llano River and surrounding Highland Lakes area. And camping and hiking are also popular.

The local chamber of commerce has a slogan: “Discover Llano ... the Way Texas Used to Be.” This small town—with its focus on historic preservation, its hardworking people and close-knit families—certainly fits that bill. Yet by emphasizing and actively using its past, Llano has secured a strong future as well.

Just look at the courthouse. It says a lot about the place and its people.

Never Too Late

2011-01-02T11:00:00.000-06:00

Better late than never. So before it all comes down, I thought I would show you a few things I did for Christmas in our Home.Yes that is cracked and peeling wallpaper. Now I know that alot of people couldn't live with old wallpaper like this, but we Loooovvvvveeee it. My Daddy says that I don't like anything unless it's falling apart, and he's right!!! I love old, even falling apart original anything. The house we live in was built in 1895. When we pulled the 1970's panneling down, this is what we found!!!!

Couldn't bear to throw away these cracked vintage ornaments, so I put them in birds nest with cracked eggs. I love the way it looks.

Vintage shabby silver ornaments inside large acorn pods on a wasps nest.

Old industrial piece filled with shredded sheet music, greenery and vintage ornaments

This was our first Christmas without my Dear Sweet Grandmother (Granny). These were her ornaments.She divided up her vintage ornaments between the 3 grandaughters about 10 years ago. I have used them every year since, but this year they seemed more special.

Vintage ornaments strewn on the coffee table. My sweet daughter, Jesika, gave me the silver heart shaped one.

A glittery blue bird in silver glitter branches

My dear friend Carol Bolton made this wonderful ornament, and I was delighted to receive it as a gift!!! She is soooo creative.

I hosted a little ornament making party at my home before Christmas for my Mom, Daughter, Sister and Niece. We made these cones and ornaments in sweet rememberance of my Grandparents with a photo of all 4 of my Grandparents on them.

One of the little peat pot ornaments I made last year.

Family tradition is very important to me. There is something comforting in seeing things that have come out year after year to adorn our home at Christmas Time. These are things that Family members have made:

The nativity figures were made by my Mom in her Sunday School class when she was in 3rd grade. They have been on display every Christmas of my life, She gave them to me a few years ago when we moved back to Llano. The crocheted wreath was made by my paternal Grandmother (Mamma) and the Red and White doilies were made by Granny just shortly before she passed. The wooden tree was carved for me by my sweet Daddy when I was but a wee lass. It has been out every Christmas since.

The little black feather tree with tiny vintage ornaments on the dinning room mantel.(Yes that is more cracked wallpaper in the dining room, Love it, love it!!!!)

So now it's time to take it all down, and I always miss it, especially the lights. So I will but them safely away and let my heart grow fonder until next season. Peace.

LIGHTING

2010-12-30T18:18:00.000-06:00

We have lots of interesting, cool lighting at Binky la Faye.

This is a sort of Industrial Steampunk style pendant light that Ron put together with some found parts.

A Pretty floor lamp

Nice Crystal Chandelier

Great toleware?

Great toleware? (I think that's what they're called) Chandelier

Lovely Ruby Glass Table Lamp

This is a Chandelier Ron made from a vintage globe, It would be great in a boy's room.